FOOD & NUTRITION

During your first week post-op, you will typically be on a full liquid diet. The second week, you will typically eat puree/soft foods diet. High calorie liquids should be avoided after the liquid stage. Other than that, it depends on individual tolerances. 

The main thing to avoid is high calorie liquids (juices, etc.). Fibrous fruits and veggies may cause problems. Pasta, ptoatoes, bread and rice are high in carbohyrdrates and offer little nutritional value. One thing that patients need to be sure they include is high fiber foods and high protein foods. As you're eating less quantity of food, you still need to get the same levels of protein and fiber in as you ate before. In general, many Bandsters find that they eat higher quality food post-Band. 

You should drink in-between meals. Try to avoid liquids 30 minutes prior or one hour after eating. If you drink too close to your meal, you can fill your pouch with liquids and you won't have room for food. 

Snacking can definitely sabotage your weight loss and usual "snack foods" are definitely not recommended. High carbohydrate foods give calories without satisfaction. If you're hungry between meals, try to have protein or fruit. You can also "snack on water", since hydration offers multiple benefits in addition to filling you up. 

Usually, you won't require any type of food supplements because the Lap Band procedure does not restrict the absorption of nutrients. You still obtain the vitamins and nutrients from what you eat. 

Take small bites, chew thoroughly. Stay active and get exercise.